Malmo and Sparta Prague face off in a crucial Champions League playoff tie, with both teams aiming to secure a spot in the group stage of the competition.
This first-leg match will be held at Malmo's Eleda Stadium, where the Swedish champions hope to leverage their home advantage.
Match Preview
Malmo
Malmo Recent Form
Malmo comes into this match on the back of a strong domestic run, having recently secured a 2-1 comeback victory against Norrkoping to maintain their lead at the top of the Swedish Allsvenskan.
In the Champions League qualifiers, Malmo edged out KI Klaksvik 6-4 on aggregate and then won a thrilling tie against PAOK 6-5 after extra time, showcasing their resilience and determination.
Malmo Injury News
Malmo will be without key players Niklas Moisander (knee), Anton Tinnerholm (groin), and Stefano Vecchia (back) due to injuries. However, the return of Sebastian Nanasi, who scored twice against PAOK, after recovering from illness, is a significant boost for the team.
Sparta Prague
Sparta Prague Recent Form
Sparta Prague has been in excellent form, remaining unbeaten in their first nine matches of the season across all competitions.
They convincingly defeated Shamrock Rovers 6-2 on aggregate in the second qualifying round and narrowly overcame FCSB 4-3 in the third round. Their domestic form is equally impressive, with a perfect record in the Czech First League, where they sit atop the table.
Sparta Prague Injury News
Sparta Prague might be without summer signing Imanol Garcia de Albeniz, who has missed the last two games due to an unspecified injury. The Czech side will look to their in-form attackers, Veljko Birmancevic and Lukas Haraslin, who have been pivotal in their recent successes.
Players To Watch
Malmo Player To Watch
Isaac Kiese Thelin has been a key player for Malmo this season, contributing significantly to their goal tally. His partnership with Erik Botheim in attack will be crucial to breaking down Sparta Prague's defence.
Sparta Prague Player To Watch
Veljko Birmancevic has been in red-hot form, contributing four goals and two assists in his last five appearances. His creativity and goal-scoring ability make him a player Malmo will need to contain.
Prediction
Given Sparta Prague's impressive form and their potent attacking lineup, they are likely to edge this first leg with a narrow victory.
Our Prediction: Malmo 1-2 Sparta Prague
Malmö 
Sparta 
